I came across this old but sage advice from “Project Gutenberg’s Manners and Conduct In School and Out”, an eBook for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with almost no restrictions whatsoever. I thought that these rules, first written in 1921, captured the very essence of conduct and character. I’ve listed just a few.

The supreme business of the school is to develop a sense of justice, the power of initiative, independence of character, correct social and civic habits, and the ability to cooperate toward the common good.-Dr. Frank Crane.

How do you develop correct social habits, the habits of a gentleman or a lady? You develop correct social habits just as you develop correct habits in playing ball, or in swimming - you discover the rules; then you practice, practice, practice. A good general rule is, Do what a kind heart prompts.

MAXIMS OF CONDUCT
Let us have faith that right makes might; and in that faith let us dare to do our duty as we understand it. - Lincoln
What ever is worth doing at all, is worth doing well. - Earl of Chesterfield

CORRIDORS
Liberty exists in proportion to wholesome restraint. - Webster

Try not to jostle one another. If by chance you do, say, “Pardon me”.

 

CLASSROOM
Speak so distinctly that everyone in the room must hear you; otherwise, not everyone will get your thought.

LUNCHROOM
Avoid rushing into or through the Lunch Room. Walk.
Never laugh at the accidents or misfortunes of others, even if they have a ridiculous side. Nothing shows ill - breeding so surely.
Leave your place in the Lunch Room tidy and spotless, with your chair pushed up to the table.

THE ASSEMBLY HALL
The appearance on the platform of one who is to speak to you should be your signal for immediate silence and attention. Don’t wait to be called to order; call yourselves to order.
Show your appreciation cordially, but avoid excessive applause. Never stamp your feet or whistle.Carried beyond a certain point, applause ceases to be a courtesy. Cultivate good taste in this matter. Moderation is a mark of good taste.

DUTY TO ONE ANOTHER
I fit is not seemly, do it not; if it is not true, speak it not. -  Marcus Aurelius
Base your friendships on good comradeship, not on maudlin emotion, not on propinquity. The right kind of girl and boy friendships may give joy for a lifetime; the wrong kind must be a continual menace.

DUTY TO YOURSELF
“Make up” at once with a friend. “I’m sorry” helps. But in case this fails, find a way that succeeds. Don’t lose your friend.

Geane Flournoy